🐾 The Ultimate Guide to Dog Anxiety: Causes, Signs, Treatments & Holistic Care

Anxiety in dogs is one of the most common behavioural concerns worldwide — and one of the most misunderstood. While occasional nervousness is normal, chronic or severe anxiety can affect a dog’s health, lifespan, and quality of life.

A large study of over 13,700 dogs published in Scientific Reports found that more than 70% of dogs display at least one anxiety-related behaviour, with noise phobias, separation distress, and fear of strangers topping the list [1].

In this guide, we’ll take a deep dive into dog anxiety — exploring the science, causes, signs, solutions, and holistic approaches. We’ll also share evidence-based strategies, natural remedies, and lifestyle tips every pet parent can use to help their anxious dog.

Disclaimer: Starlet Pets provides guidance only. Always consult your veterinarian or a qualified veterinary behaviourist before starting any new treatment plan.

🔎 What is Anxiety in Dogs?

Anxiety is the anticipation of a perceived threat. In dogs, this triggers the sympathetic nervous system and the HPA axis, releasing hormones like cortisol and adrenaline [2].

While this system is useful in emergencies, chronic activation leads to:

• Weakened immune function [3]

• Disrupted digestion (via the gut–brain axis) [4]

• Increased inflammation and pain sensitivity

• Reduced learning capacity and sleep disturbance

Anxiety is not “just behaviour.” It is a whole-body condition that requires compassionate management.

🐾 A Deeper Understanding: What is Anxiety in Dogs?

Anxiety in dogs is more than a fleeting fear or a quirky behaviour — it is a complex emotional and physiological state that influences nearly every system in the body. At its core, anxiety is the anticipation of a threat, whether real or imagined. When a dog perceives something as frightening — a loud bang, being left alone, or even subtle changes in routine — its body activates the fight-or-flight response.

This involves the sympathetic nervous system and the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, both of which prepare the body for survival. Adrenaline surges, heart rate increases, and stress hormones such as cortisol flood the system.

In short bursts, this is adaptive. If your dog hears sudden thunder, a temporary rise in stress hormones can sharpen awareness and prime the muscles to run or hide. The problem arises when anxiety becomes chronic or poorly managed.

Constant activation of this stress response places enormous strain on the body.

Prolonged cortisol elevation weakens the immune system, leaving dogs more vulnerable to infections and slowing healing. The digestive system also suffers, as blood is diverted away from “non-essential” processes during stress, disrupting gut motility and altering the balance of the microbiome — a system now known to play a major role in emotional regulation through the gut–brain axis.

Physically, chronic anxiety may present as gastrointestinal upset, recurring skin flare-ups, increased inflammation, and even heightened pain sensitivity.

Behaviourally, the dog may become restless, hyper-vigilant, destructive, or withdrawn. Sleep patterns can be disrupted, making the dog less resilient and more prone to further stress. Cognitive functions such as memory and learning are also impaired, meaning anxious dogs may struggle to benefit fully from training or rehabilitation programs.

It is important to recognise that anxiety is not simply a behavioural quirk or a matter of poor obedience. It is a whole-body condition with psychological, physiological, and environmental components. Genetics, past experiences, medical conditions, and the pet’s relationship with its environment and family all play a role in shaping how anxiety manifests.

For example, herding breeds may be more genetically predisposed to heightened reactivity, while rescue dogs with traumatic histories may carry deep-seated fears. Even the emotional state of an owner can influence their dog — research shows that dogs often mirror the stress levels of their humans through hormonal synchronisation.

Understanding anxiety as a condition of the entire mind-body system is crucial. It shifts the perspective from punishment or suppression of “bad” behaviour to a compassionate management approach.

This includes medical screening to rule out underlying illness, targeted behavioural therapy to help dogs cope, and supportive strategies such as natural supplements, environmental adjustments, and lifestyle enrichment.

In essence, anxiety in dogs is a complex survival mechanism gone awry. By viewing it as both a medical and behavioural challenge, pet parents and professionals can work together to provide holistic support that nurtures both emotional balance and physical health.

🐶 Types of Dog Anxiety

Dogs can develop several different types of anxiety. Many experience more than one at a time.

1. Separation Anxiety

• Affects 14–20% of dogs [5]

• Signs: destructive chewing, barking/howling, pacing, urinating indoors when left alone

🐾 Separation Anxiety in Dogs

Separation anxiety is one of the most common and distressing forms of anxiety in dogs. It occurs when a dog becomes highly stressed in the absence of their owner or primary caregiver. Unlike simple boredom, separation anxiety stems from a deep fear of being left alone and can significantly impact a dog’s wellbeing.

Typical signs include destructive behaviour (chewing furniture, scratching doors), excessive vocalisation (barking, whining, howling), pacing, drooling, or attempts to escape. Some dogs may urinate or defecate indoors despite being housetrained. These behaviours are not acts of spite but rather expressions of panic.

Several factors can contribute to separation anxiety: genetics, early weaning, traumatic experiences, or sudden changes in routine such as a new job schedule. Rescue dogs and those with a history of abandonment are especially vulnerable.

Managing separation anxiety requires patience and structured training.

Behaviour modification techniques like gradual desensitisation and counter-conditioning are key. For severe cases, veterinarians may recommend medications to reduce panic and support training. Enrichment, predictable routines, and creating a safe space can also help.

Ultimately, separation anxiety is a sign of deep attachment — and with the right support, most dogs can learn to feel safe and secure when home alone.

2. Noise Anxiety

• 30–50% of dogs fear fireworks, thunderstorms, or even household appliances [6]

• Symptoms: hiding, shaking, drooling, escape attempts

🐾 Noise Anxiety in Dogs

Noise anxiety, sometimes called noise phobia, is one of the most widespread anxiety issues in dogs. It refers to an intense fear response to loud or unexpected sounds such as fireworks, thunderstorms, vacuum cleaners, or traffic. While occasional startle responses are normal, dogs with noise anxiety experience ongoing stress that can seriously impact their quality of life.

Common signs include trembling, hiding, pacing, panting, drooling, vocalising, or trying to escape. Some dogs may claw at doors, chew furniture, or even injure themselves in an attempt to flee the sound. This level of panic is not disobedience — it is a true phobic response driven by the brain’s fear circuits.

The causes of noise anxiety are varied. Genetics play a role, with certain breeds more prone to sound sensitivity. Negative experiences, such as being caught outside during a storm, can also trigger long-lasting fear. Dogs that were not properly exposed to different sounds during puppyhood may be especially vulnerable.

Treatment usually involves desensitisation and counter-conditioning, where recordings of the noise are played at a low level while paired with rewards. Safe spaces, white noise, calming supplements, and in severe cases, vet-prescribed medication can help dogs feel more secure during noisy events.

3. Social Anxiety

• Triggered by unfamiliar people, other dogs, or crowded places

• Often linked to poor early socialisation or traumatic events

🐾 Social Anxiety in Dogs

Social anxiety in dogs refers to fear or discomfort around unfamiliar people, other dogs, or crowded environments.

Unlike generalised anxiety, social anxiety is triggered by specific social interactions and can limit a dog’s ability to enjoy everyday activities such as walks, park visits, or meeting guests at home.

Dogs with social anxiety may show signs like cowering, tail tucking, lip licking, trembling, growling, or barking defensively. Some may refuse to move or attempt to hide, while others overreact with lunging or snapping to create distance. These behaviours are not signs of aggression but rather of fear and self-protection.

There are many potential causes. A lack of positive socialisation during the critical early period (3–14 weeks) is a major factor. Negative experiences — such as rough handling, dog attacks, or chaotic environments — can reinforce fear. Genetics and temperament also influence a dog’s confidence levels.

Helping a dog with social anxiety requires gentle, structured exposure paired with positive reinforcement. Professional guidance from a qualified trainer or behaviourist can be invaluable. With patience, safe environments, and gradual practice, many dogs learn to gain confidence and enjoy social settings without becoming overwhelmed.

4. Situational Anxiety

• Specific triggers: vet visits, car rides, grooming sessions

🐾 Situational Anxiety in Dogs

Situational anxiety refers to stress or fear that arises in specific circumstances rather than being a constant or generalised condition.

Many dogs that are otherwise calm may become anxious during vet visits, grooming appointments, car rides, or unfamiliar environments. These situations can trigger intense worry because they are linked to negative past experiences, sensory overload, or loss of control.

Signs of situational anxiety include panting, trembling, drooling, excessive vocalisation, resistance to handling, or attempts to escape. Some dogs may shut down completely, refusing to move or interact, while others may show agitation or defensive behaviour.

Common causes include early traumatic experiences, lack of gradual exposure, or overwhelming first encounters. For example, a puppy’s first car ride may have been associated with nausea, leading to long-term travel anxiety. Similarly, rough handling during a grooming session can create fear of the salon.

Managing situational anxiety involves preparation and gradual desensitisation. Car rides can be practiced in small, positive steps; vet visits can be made stress-free by pairing them with treats and short “happy visits.” In some cases, calming supplements, pheromone therapy, or short-term medications prescribed by a veterinarian can help dogs cope with these stressful events.

5. Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

• Persistent unease across multiple situations

• Recognised in veterinary behavioural medicine [7]

🐾 Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) in Dogs

Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) in dogs is a condition where anxiety is not tied to a single trigger, but instead becomes a persistent state of heightened worry and tension across many situations.

Unlike separation or noise anxiety, which have identifiable causes, GAD dogs often appear restless, uneasy, or hyper-vigilant much of the time.

Signs of GAD can include constant pacing, excessive alertness, difficulty settling, disrupted sleep, digestive issues, repetitive behaviours (like licking or chewing), and exaggerated startle responses. Over time, these behaviours can escalate into destructive habits or even aggression if the dog feels continually threatened.

The causes of GAD are complex and usually involve a combination of genetics, early life experiences, trauma, and environmental stressors. Dogs with GAD may have particularly sensitive nervous systems, making it hard for them to “switch off” and relax.

Treatment requires a holistic, long-term approach. Behaviour modification techniques such as relaxation protocols and desensitisation can help, but veterinary support is often necessary. Medications like SSRIs or TCAs, combined with structured training, can reduce baseline anxiety and improve coping skills.

Natural aids such as probiotics, calming supplements, and consistent routines also play an important role in managing daily stress.

🐾 Signs & Symptoms of Dog Anxiety

Anxiety looks different from dog to dog, but common signs include:

Behavioural

• Barking, whining, or howling

• Destructive chewing, digging, scratching

• Pacing or restlessness

• Attempts to escape

Physical

• Panting, drooling, trembling

• Dilated pupils

• Gastrointestinal upset

Emotional

• Clinginess or withdrawal

• Loss of appetite

• Hyper-vigilance

Red flags that warrant urgent veterinary care include self-injury (chewing or over-grooming), aggression, or refusal to eat/drink.

🐶 Understanding the Signs of Anxiety in Dogs

Recognising the signs of anxiety in dogs is crucial for early intervention. While some symptoms may seem minor, together they can paint a clear picture of a pet struggling with stress.

Behavioural signs such as excessive barking, pacing, or destructive chewing are often the first things owners notice, but these are only the surface. Dogs experiencing anxiety may also show subtle stress signals like yawning when not tired, lip licking, or avoiding eye contact. These are early indicators that a dog is uncomfortable.

Physically, anxiety activates the sympathetic nervous system, causing panting, trembling, dilated pupils, and sometimes even gastrointestinal upset like vomiting or diarrhea. These responses reflect the body’s attempt to cope with perceived danger, even when no real threat exists.

Emotionally, anxious dogs may become overly clingy, following their owners everywhere, or withdraw completely, hiding under furniture or refusing to interact. In some cases, appetite decreases, and sleep patterns may become irregular.

The intensity and combination of signs vary depending on the dog and the trigger. By learning to identify these early symptoms, owners can provide support before anxiety escalates into more severe issues such as aggression or self-harm.

Signs of Anxiety in Dogs

🌍 What Causes Anxiety in Dogs?

• Genetics: Some breeds (e.g., Border Collies, German Shepherds, toy breeds) are predisposed [8].

• Early experiences: Lack of positive socialisation between 3–14 weeks is a major risk factor [9].

• Owner influence: Dogs mirror their humans’ stress; studies show long-term stress levels synchronise between owners and dogs [10].

• Medical conditions: Pain (arthritis), thyroid imbalances, or neurological problems can mimic anxiety.

• Environmental changes: Moving home, a new baby, or schedule disruptions are common triggers.

🐾 Understanding the Root Causes of Anxiety

Dog anxiety rarely stems from a single factor — it usually develops through a combination of genetics, environment, health, and life experiences.

While certain breeds may have a natural predisposition toward nervousness or reactivity, early life experiences play an equally critical role. Puppies that miss out on safe, positive exposure to people, places, and sounds during the key socialisation window (3–14 weeks) are more likely to develop lasting fears.

Traumatic events, such as abandonment, harsh training methods, or accidents, can also leave deep emotional imprints.

The influence of owners cannot be underestimated. Research shows that dogs often mirror their humans’ stress levels, synchronising through shared routines and even hormonal patterns. A stressed household can unintentionally create an anxious pet. Similarly, sudden environmental changes — a move, a new baby, or a change in work schedule — may disrupt the dog’s sense of security and stability.

Medical issues further complicate the picture. Conditions like chronic pain, hypothyroidism, or neurological disorders may appear as behavioural changes, making professional veterinary checks essential when anxiety signs emerge. By identifying these underlying causes, owners can better address not just the symptoms but the true roots of their dog’s anxiety.

What caused Anxiety in Dogs?

🧠 The Gut–Brain Axis & Anxiety

Modern research highlights the gut-brain connection:

• Around 90% of serotonin is produced in the gut [11].

• Dogs with unbalanced microbiomes show more stress behaviours.

• Probiotics (e.g., Bifidobacterium longum BL999) have been shown to reduce barking, pacing, and cortisol levels [12].

• Omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation and improve stress resilience [13].

👉 Supporting gut health is a core strategy for managing anxiety.

🧠 Understanding The Gut–Brain Axis & Anxiety

The gut and brain are deeply connected through a two-way communication system known as the gut–brain axis.

This pathway links the digestive system, nervous system, and immune system, allowing the gut to influence mood, behaviour, and emotional wellbeing. In fact, around 90% of serotonin, often called the “feel-good hormone,” is produced in the gut rather than the brain.

When a dog’s gut microbiome — the community of beneficial bacteria in the intestines — is unbalanced, it can affect the production of neurotransmitters and trigger stress-related behaviours.

Studies have shown that dogs with gut dysbiosis may be more prone to anxiety, digestive upset, and immune challenges. Conversely, restoring balance with probiotics and prebiotics has been shown to reduce barking, pacing, and cortisol levels in anxious dogs.

Nutritional support is therefore an essential part of managing anxiety. A diet rich in fibre, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants supports gut health, while targeted supplements like probiotics and bone broth can strengthen the gut lining and promote resilience.

By caring for the gut, owners are not only improving digestion but also supporting their dog’s emotional balance and overall wellbeing.

🌿 Evidence-Based Approaches to Treating Anxiety

1. Environmental Management

• Provide a safe space (crate, quiet room, or den-like area)

• Use white noise or calming music during storms [14]

• Keep routines predictable (feeding, walking, sleeping)

2. Behavioural Training

• Desensitisation: gradually exposing your dog to triggers at a tolerable level

• Counter-conditioning: pairing scary triggers with positive rewards

• Relaxation protocols: structured exercises that teach calm behaviour [15]

3. Natural Remedies & Supplements

• L-Theanine & L-Tryptophan: amino acids that regulate serotonin [16]

• Hemp Seed Oil: anti-inflammatory and calming effects

• Flower Essences (Rescue Remedy® Pet): gentle support during stressful events

• Bone Broth: rich in collagen, glucosamine, and minerals for resilience

• Probiotics & Prebiotics: balance gut-brain communication [12]

4. Veterinary Medications

For moderate to severe cases, vets may prescribe:

• SSRIs (fluoxetine, sertraline): effective for separation anxiety [17]

• TCAs (clomipramine): proven in randomised controlled trials [18]

• Trazodone: situational calming for vet visits or confinement [19]

• Dexmedetomidine oromucosal gel (Sileo®): FDA-approved for noise aversion [20]

• Imepitoin (Pexion®): reduces storm-related anxiety [21]

Medication is best used alongside behaviour modification and environmental support.

🐾 Step-by-Step Plans

A) Separation Anxiety

1. Vet check to rule out medical issues

2. Use pet sitters/daycare during rehab

3. Start with tiny departures (seconds) and build gradually

4. Stay calm during arrivals and departures

5. Use enrichment (chew toys, sniff games)

6. Consider medication for severe cases [17][18]

B) Noise Anxiety

1. Prep safe space with curtains, music, and chews

2. Practice sound therapy with low-volume recordings

3. During storms/fireworks: use Sileo® or trazodone if prescribed [20]

4. Try pheromone diffusers or pressure wraps [22][23]

5. Track progress with tools like the Lincoln Sound Sensitivity Scale [24]

C) Vet Visit Stress

• Do happy “treat-only” clinic visits

• Train cooperative care behaviours (chin rests, consent cues)

• Use pre-visit calming aids or meds if needed [19]

🐶 Lifestyle & Enrichment

• Sniff walks & scent games: build confidence and reduce arousal

• Puzzle feeders & lick mats: encourage self-soothing

• Chewing outlets: safe chews lower stress hormones

• Structured exercise: balanced activity prevents pent-up energy

✨ Starlet Pets Holistic Insights

At Starlet Pets, we believe in combining science with holistic insight you can find simplified and general understandings in our pet horoscopes or numerology insights thorughout our blog posts are a great tool for pet owners as are our ebooks, however we recommend a full personalised astrology or numerology report for your pet for the best insights allowing you to meet the direct needs of your pet and gain a better understanding of what might be causing their anxiety and best methods for your pet based on their astrology or numerology report.

• Astrology:

  • Cancer/Pisces dogs: emotionally sensitive, prone to separation anxiety

  • Virgo dogs: may show stress via digestion

  • Aries/Leo dogs: energetic and restless when anxious

• Numerology:

  • Number 2 dogs: gentle but easily unsettled

  • Number 5 dogs: excitable and prone to overstimulation

  • Number 7 dogs: introspective and sensitive to busy environments

These tools don’t replace veterinary care, training or rehabilitation but they help owners gain a better understanding of their pet and tailor daily routines and emotional support.

🐾 When to Seek Veterinary Help

Contact your vet if your dog’s anxiety is:

• Severe or worsening

• Causing self-harm

• Leading to aggression

• Preventing eating, drinking, or resting

💜 Final Thoughts

Dog anxiety is multifactorial, shaped by genetics, environment, health, and even emotional energy. The good news? There are many tools available — from behaviour modification and nutrition to natural remedies and veterinary medicine.

We know how overwhelming conditions like this can feel to pet owners, however rest assured that by combining science-backed care with holistic insights, you can take back control and create a complete wellness plan that helps your anxious dog live a calmer, happier, and more balanced life.

👉 Explore our natural wellness products and try a Starlet Pets Astrology or Numerology Report for a personalised look at your dog’s emotional needs.

🐾 The Ultimate Guide to Dog Anxiety: Causes, Signs, Treatments & Holistic Care

📚 References

1. Salonen, M. et al. (2020). Prevalence, comorbidity, and breed differences in canine anxiety in 13,700 Finnish pet dogs. Scientific Reports. Link

2. Beerda, B. et al. (1999). Chronic stress in dogs subjected to social and spatial restriction. Physiology & Behavior.

3. Hennessy, M.B. et al. (2001). Effects of repeated maternal separation on cortisol and behaviour in dogs.Physiology & Behavior.

4. Carabotti, M. et al. (2015). The gut-brain axis. Annals of Gastroenterology.

5. Sherman, B.L. & Mills, D.S. (2008). Canine Separation Anxiety: Prevalence and Risk Factors. JAVMA.

6. Blackwell, E.J. et al. (2013). The epidemiology of sound sensitivity in dogs. Veterinary Journal.

7. Overall, K.L. (2013). Manual of Clinical Behavioral Medicine for Dogs and Cats.

8. Tiira, K. & Lohi, H. (2015). Early life experiences and exercise associate with canine anxieties. PLoS One.

9. UC Davis Veterinary Medicine. Puppy Socialisation Period (3–14 weeks).

10. Sundman, A. et al. (2019). Stress synchronisation in dogs and owners. Scientific Reports.

11. Gershon, M.D. (2013). Serotonin is a local hormone of the gut. Gastroenterology.

12. McGowan, R.T.S. et al. (2017). Evaluation of a probiotic for canine anxiety. Frontiers in Veterinary Science.

13. Re, S. et al. (2008). Omega-3 supplementation and behaviour in dogs. Veterinary Research Communications.

14. Wells, D.L. et al. (2002). The effect of music on the behaviour of kenneled dogs. Animal Welfare.

15. Overall, K.L. (2013). Relaxation protocol. Manual of Clinical Behavioral Medicine.

16. Landsberg, G.M. et al. (2015). Theanine and alpha-casozepine for anxiety in dogs. Can Vet J.

17. Simpson, B.S. et al. (2007). Fluoxetine in the treatment of canine separation anxiety. JAVMA.

18. King, J.N. et al. (2000). Clomipramine in the treatment of separation anxiety. J Small Anim Pract.

19. Gruen, M.E. et al. (2014). Trazodone for acute anxiety in dogs. JAVMA.

20. FDA. Sileo® (dexmedetomidine oromucosal gel).

21. Engel, O. et al. (2019). Imepitoin in storm anxiety in dogs. BMC Vet Res.

22. Sheppard, G. & Mills, D.S. (2003). Dog-appeasing pheromone in the management of canine fear. Vet Rec.

23. Buckley, L.A. (2018). Systematic review of pressure wraps in dogs. Veterinary Evidence.

24. Blackwell, E. et al. (2013). Lincoln Sound Sensitivity Scale (LSSS).